Definition Verb To get underway in a hurry. Origin Probably the 17th century. Comments Nowadays, the phrase has entered common usage and is generally used
Month: January 2020
Sailor Speak of the Week – Black Gang
Definition Noun (slang) The crew of the fire room(s) in coal-burning steamships. Origin 19th Century. Comments Fairly self-explanatory. The poor sailors who slaved away shoveling
U.S. 16″/50 Mark 7 Gun
Caveat: The information contained in this post is of a very general nature. See references for where to find more detailed information. This post focuses
Sailor Speak of the Week – Avast
Definition Verb Origin Probably earlier than the 17th Century. From Old Dutch, hou’vest, and possibly related to the Portuguese word, abasta, meaning, enough. Earlier origins
How to Win a Decisive Naval Battle
The need to gain and maintain control of the seas has been the primary goal of navies for centuries. There are a multitude of reasons
Sailor Speak of the Week – ZULU Time
Definition Noun AKA Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Origin Modern times. Comments Simply another way to express Greenwich Mean Time. Used in radio traffic and expressed
Fair Winds & Following Seas 